Meet Your Coaches

Professor Ted Stickel is a fifth-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He received his black belt from Master Nelson Monteiro. He received his first and second degrees from Master Carlos Gracie Jr, his third degree from Master Marcio Fietosa, and his fourth and fifth degrees from Master Nelson Monteiro.

Professor Stickel has been teaching Jiu Jitsu for over 30 years. Master Nelson and Professor Ted opened the first Jiu Jitsu school in San Diego, California. Then, moving to Anchorage, Alaska, Professor Ted opened the first Jiu Jitsu school in the state, Gracie Barra Alaska.

During his years in Alaska, Professor Ted was contracted by the U.S. military to teach their combative program. He taught the 212th Para Rescue Group on Kulis Air Force Base and the U.S. Army Airborne on Fort Richardson. He had the honor of taking eight soldiers from Alaska to the first All-Army Combatives Tournament at Fort Benning, Georgia, where his team took third place overall. He has also worked with other elite warriors such as The Navy Seals, Army Special Forces, and numerous law enforcement agencies. Professor Ted has traveled extensively, teaching and learning his craft. He has traveled to Brazil, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates to name a few. Professor Ted has coached and cornered numerous professional MMA competitors in all of the top venues around the world including the UFC. Professor Ted also holds an 8th-degree black belt in Kung Fu San Soo under master Ted Sias and is ranked in Hwarangdo and several other self-defense systems.

Now, with his own academy, he is bringing the ultimate Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and self-defense training to the Katy/Richmond area. Professor Ted is known for developing his academy into a family. He promotes themes of respect, responsibility, and discipline in his classes. Professor Ted takes the time to know his students individually and guide them to develop their full potential. When Professor Ted isn't at the Academy, you can find him at Bible Study, Prayer Meetings at the church, and occasionally on the pistol range.

Bringing a strong foundation of discipline from 6 years in the Navy, he has spent over 30 years in martial arts and 14 years specializing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As a fitness professional, he's committed to helping others improve both physically and mentally.

Outside the gym, he enjoys life with his spouse of 17 years and their two dogs.

Coach Melanie discovered Brazilian Jiu Jitsu after moving to Katy and quickly fell in love with the art, the challenge, and the community at Next Level Jiu Jitsu. What started as a hobby soon became a passion, and she has been dedicated to training and growing on the mats ever since.

Alongside Jiu Jitsu, Coach Melanie is a certified personal trainer who enjoys helping others build strength, confidence, and discipline through fitness and martial arts. She believes Jiu Jitsu is for everyone, and especially loves encouraging beginners to step out of their comfort zones and discover what they're capable of.

When she's not on the mats, Coach Melanie enjoys exploring the outdoors, playing hockey, camping, biking, and finding new ways to challenge herself.